SELLER’S GUIDE
WelcometoSeasideLivingGroup
Founded in 2021 by Colleen Waldoch and Scott Swonger, Seaside Living Group was born from a shared vision: to build more than just another real estate team. We set out to create a collective of professionals committed to excellence driven by integrity, compassion, and a passion for helping others thrive
At Seaside Living Group, professionalism isn't just expected it's the baseline. Our agents are highly trained, sharp, and deeply knowledgeable, but just as importantly, they lead with empathy and understanding. We believe real estate is about more than transactions it’s about people, relationships, and creating a smooth, positive experience every step of the way
We hold ourselves to high standards because our clients deserve nothing less. With a strong foundation and a forward-thinking mindset, we’re not only focused on delivering outstanding results today we’re building a team that’s ready to grow, adapt, and lead in the years to come
Whether you're buying your first home, relocating to the coast, or exploring a new investment, we're here to guide you with clarity, care, and expertise. Welcome to a new standard in real estate. Welcome to Seaside Living.
HOME SELLING PROCESS
1 FIND A REAL ESTATE AGENT
Look for a professional agent who knows your area well and has experience selling homes similar to yours
2
SET A PRICE
Work with your agent to set determine a price that's in line with the market value of your home
3
STAGE YOUR HOME
Clean and declutter your home to make it more appealing to potential buyers You may also want to make minor repairs and consider hiring a professional stager to help you optimize your space
4
MARKET YOUR HOME
Your agent will also promote your home through advertising and networking
5
LIST YOUR HOME
Once your home is ready to go, your real estate agent will list it on multiple websites and market it to potential buyers in your area
SCHEDULE SHOWINGS
Keep your calendar open to accommodate potential buyers and make your home available for viewings. Be sure to keep it clean and presentable for each showing
7
REVIEW OFFERS
As offers come in, work with your agent to review them and negotiate terms that are favorable to you.
8
SIGN A CONTRACT
Once you've accepted an offer, a legal contract is created between you and the buyer At this point, the buyer will have a certain period of time to complete inspections and secure financing
9
FINALIZE DETAILS
As the closing date approaches, you'll need to prepare to move out and finalize any remaining paperwork Your agent can guide you through this process and answer any questions you may have
10
CLOSE THE SALE
Congratulations! You've sold your home On the closing date, the buyer will provide payment, and you'll transfer ownership of the property to them
One fact about selling a house is that the condition and appearance of the property can have a significant impact on its sale price and the amount of time it spends on the market. Homes that are well-maintained, clean, and staged tend to sell for more money and in a shorter amount of time than homes that are in poor condition or cluttered.
TERMS TO KNOW
LISTING AGREEMENT
A contract between the seller and the real estate agent, which outlines the terms and conditions of the agent's services to sell the property
EQUITY
The difference between the current market value of the property and the outstanding mortgage balance.
APPRAISAL
An estimate of the value of the property performed by a licensed appraiser to determine its fair market value
HOME INSPECTION
A detailed examination of the property by a licensed home inspector to identify any potential issues that could affect the sale or value of the property
CONTINGENCY
A condition that must be met in order for the sale to proceed, such as the buyer obtaining financing or the completion of a satisfactory home inspection
OFFER
A proposal to buy a property, including the price and terms of the sale
CLOSING COSTS
Fees associated with the sale of the property, including title search, transfer taxes, attorney fees, and other expenses
DISCLOSURE
The seller's obligation to disclose any known defects or issues with the property that could affect its value or safety.
TITLE
The legal right to own and sell the property, which is conveyed to the buyer at closing
DEED
The legal document that transfers ownership of the property from the seller to the buyer
UNDER CONTRACT
A stage in the sale process where the seller has accepted an offer, but the sale has not yet been finalized.
CLOSING
The final step in a real estate transaction where the buyer pays for the property and the seller transfers ownership.
FIND A REAL ESTATE AGENT
Choosing a real estate agent whom you trust and feel comfortable with can be as challenging as finding your dream home Given the significant investment involved, it's crucial to work with an agent who is as committed to the sale as you are.
With our experienced team of agents, you can feel confident that you're in good hands.
OUR EXPERTISE
Our agents possess industry knowledge that goes beyond what's available to the general public This specialized knowledge can help you determine the ideal selling price and timing for your property, based on market trends and other factors.
NEGOTIATING SKILLS
With our team's collective experience and expertise, we can help you negotiate the best possible price for your home. Our agents know how to navigate complex negotiations to ensure that you get the best value for your investment.
PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
Our agents are held to the highest standards of professionalism They undergo regular training and compliance checks to stay up-to-date on changes in legal and administrative procedures This ensures that you receive reliable and accurate guidance throughout the sales process
CUSTOMER SERVICE
We believe that customer service is key Our agents are committed to providing exceptional service and answering any questions or concerns you may have We treat our clients with the same level of respect and care that we would want for ourselves
SET A PRICE 02
PRICING
Pricing your home correctly is a critical component of the home selling process If you list your property too high, you risk deterring potential buyers and prolonging the selling process Conversely, pricing too low could result in leaving money on the table and not maximizing your return on investment.
HOW WE HELP YOU SET THE RIGHT LISTING PRICE
At our agency, we utilize our expertise in the local real estate market to help you set a reasonable and competitive listing price.
Our agents will conduct a comprehensive analysis of your property, taking into account factors such as location, condition, and market trends, to ensure that your home is priced appropriately.
With our guidance, you can feel confident that you are setting the optimal price to attract potential buyers and secure the best possible outcome for your sale
STAGE YOUR HOME 03
Home staging makes a property look its best, emphasizing its best features, creating warmth and comfort, and making it look inviting and spacious Staged homes photograph better, stand out more in listings and showings, leading to quicker sales and potentially higher selling prices. It creates a more attractive environment for potential buyers, increasing the likelihood of a successful sale.
HOME STAGING TIPS
Style your home to allow potential buyers to envision themselves living there
Declutter and depersonalize your home to create a neutral space
Consider hiring a professional home staging company
Invest in high-quality, professional photography for your listing
Take the time to present your home in the best possible light to sell more quickly and for a higher price.
HOW TO STAGE YOUR HOME
DECLUTTER AND DEPERSONALIZE
Clear out any unnecessary items or personal belongings to make the space look larger and more appealing to potential buyers.
CLEAN AND REPAIR
Clean your home thoroughly and fix any visible damages, such as chipped paint or broken fixtures, to make the space appear well-maintained
ENHANCE CURB APPEAL
First impressions are everything, so make sure the exterior of your home is tidy and inviting Consider adding some potted plants, a fresh coat of paint, or new front door hardware
REARRANGE FURNITURE
Create a functional flow by rearranging furniture and removing any oversized pieces that make rooms look cluttered.
USE NEUTRAL COLORS
Neutral colors create a blank canvas that allows buyers to envision themselves in the space Consider painting walls or swapping out bold accessories for more muted tones
LET IN NATURAL LIGHT
Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible This will make rooms feel brighter and more spacious
STAGE EACH ROOM
Each room should have a clear purpose and be staged accordingly. For example, a spare bedroom can be staged as a home office or workout space.
ADD FINISHING TOUCHES
Small details can make a big impact Consider adding fresh flowers, a decorative throw pillow, or a scented candle to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere
MARKET YOUR HOME 04
Marketing your home is about highlighting its best features and making it stand out to potential buyers. By taking the time to create a compelling listing and using social media and other marketing tools, you can increase the chances of selling your home quickly and at a good price.
MARKETING TIPS
Highlight your home's best features: Make a list of the unique features and benefits of your home, and use them in the marketing materials.
Write a compelling description: Your listing description should be engaging and descriptive Use descriptive language and paint a picture of what it would be like to live in your home
LIST YOUR HOME
CONGRATULATIONS ON LISTING YOUR HOME FOR SALE!
Our real estate agents will utilize their network to increase visibility and reach the appropriate audience. Additionally, we can provide a front yard sign to inform passersby of your intention to sell.
WHAT'S NEXT?
After listing your home for sale, prepare for showings, offers, negotiations, inspections, and closing A clean and tidy home is crucial for showings.
Carefully review offers, negotiate with the buyer, prepare for inspections and sign paperwork for the closing process. Our real estate agent will assist throughout the process.
06 SCHEDULE SHOWINGS
Potential buyers will want to see your home, so it's important to prepare for showings. Creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere is key to a successful home showing
By taking the time to prepare your home and make it look its best, you can increase your chances of making a good impression and finding the right buyer for your home.
You should also be prepared to be flexible with your schedule to accommodate showings.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The first impression is crucial Make sure the exterior of your home looks inviting and wellmaintained This includes trimming the lawn, removing any clutter, and making sure the front door looks clean and welcoming.
CLEANLINESS
A clean home is essential. Make sure your home is spotless, from the floors to the bathrooms. Clean up any clutter or personal items to make your home look more spacious.
PETS
To ensure that potential buyers feel at ease during showings, it's a good idea to have your pets stay with a friend or family member, or take them for a walk during the showing. This will help create a welcoming environment and make it easier for buyers to focus on the features of your home.
PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SHOWINGS
CHECKLIST
Clean and declutter all rooms
Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors
Dust furniture and surfaces
Make beds and fluff pillows
Clean bathrooms and replace towels
Make sure all light fixtures are working and replace any burnt-out bulbs
Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light
Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature
Remove any valuables or personal items
Hide pet items and make arrangements for pets
REVIEW OFFERS
OFFERS
Once potential buyers start showing interest in your home, you may start receiving offers It's important to carefully review each offer and consider factors such as the buyer's financing, contingencies, and proposed closing date.
NEGOTIATIONS
It's common for buyers to negotiate on price or other terms of the sale. Our real estate agent can help you navigate these negotiations and ensure that you're getting the best possible deal
INSPECTIONS
After accepting an offer, the buyer will typically schedule a home inspection. It's important to prepare for the inspection by ensuring that your home is in good condition and addressing any potential issues
SIGN A CONTRACT
UNDER CONTRACT
Being "under contract" means that you have accepted an offer from a buyer and have entered into a legally binding agreement to sell your property
During this time, the buyer completes inspections and secures financing. You're responsible for maintaining the property and resolving any issues. Once all contingencies are met, you move to the closing phase and transfer ownership to the buyer.
FINALIZE DETAILS
During this step, the seller and buyer will work together to complete any remaining paperwork and ensure that all contingencies are met.
This may include finalizing the purchase agreement, completing a final walk-through of the property, and making any necessary repairs or adjustments.
It's important for both parties to communicate openly and work together to resolve any outstanding issues before moving on to the next step.
CLOSE THE SALE
CLOSING - THE FINAL STEP
You'll work with your real estate agent and the buyer's agent to complete necessary paperwork and resolve any outstanding issues
This may include completing repairs or upgrades that were agreed upon during negotiations
Once everything is in order, you'll meet with the buyer to sign paperwork and transfer ownership of the property
The buyer will typically bring a cashier's check for the purchase price, and you'll receive payment for the sale at this time
